Growing cannabis outdoors in the UK can be a rewarding endeavor for those with green thumbs, but it comes with a unique set of challenges and considerations. In this article, we’re going to guide you through the essentials of setting up an outdoor cannabis garden, from the legalities down to contending with the British weather.
Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, our tips will help you cultivate a successful crop.
Navigating Cannabis Laws in the UK: A Brief Overview
Before you start planting your cannabis seeds, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework surrounding cannabis cultivation in the UK. As of now, growing cannabis for personal use remains illegal, with actions potentially leading to serious penalties.
Hemp isn’t much different either and requires a special license and must contain less than 0.2% THC.
Always stay up-to-date with the latest laws to ensure you’re fully informed of the potential legal risks involved.
Learn to Grow Better Weed
Download our free guide to growing amazing cannabis at home.
Click Here For More Info
Understanding the UK’s Outdoor Growing Climate
The UK is known for its temperate maritime climate, which means growers can often face unpredictable weather with plenty of rainfall. Even during the growing season, temperatures can swing and sunny days can quickly turn into a wet week.
When planning your outdoor cannabis garden, think about how these conditions will influence when to plant and what strains will thrive in a cooler, more varied climate. Cultivars that are resilient to cool weather and resistant to mold are your best choices. Considering these factors will be key in making the most of the natural resources available, ensuring your plants have the best chance to grow healthy and strong.
Selecting the Best Cannabis Strains for UK Weather
When choosing the right strains for outdoor cultivation in the UK, it’s essential to pick those that can handle a cooler and sometimes harsh environment. Fast-flowering strains or those bred for resilience against mold and humidity are ideal.
Autoflowering varieties can be particularly suitable due to their hardiness and ability to flower independent of light cycles, which means they can be harvested before the wet and cold autumn weather sets in. Look for genetics that have a proven track record of successful growth in similar climates.
Month-by-Month: Planting and Harvesting Timelines in the UK
Planting and caring for cannabis in the UK follows a distinct timeline to navigate the changing seasons.
Starting your seeds indoors in early March can give your plants a head start. By late May or early June, when the risk of frost has passed, it’s the right time to move your plants outside.
Flowering typically occurs from July to September, and depending on the strain, you should plan to harvest in late September or early October to avoid the damp conditions that can bring bud rot.
Tips for Protecting Outdoor Cannabis from the UK Elements
To protect your plants from the UK’s often damp and variable conditions, you’ll want to:
- Ensure good drainage in your soil to prevent waterlogging.
- Use raised beds or pots to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
- Choose a sunny spot that receives ample light throughout the day.
- Implement plant training techniques to increase airflow and sunlight exposure.
- Consider a greenhouse or protective covering to shield your plants from excessive rain and to control humidity.
- Regularly check for pests and mold, which can thrive in damp environments.
Ready to grow greener?
Reefertilizer has everything you need from specially formulated cannabis nutrients to comprehensive grow guides.
Growing cannabis outdoors in the UK requires dedication and an understanding of the unique challenges presented by the climate. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll increase your chances of success. Remember, knowledge is power! Stay informed about laws, adapt your practices to the weather, and always be prepared for the unexpected.
If you want to learn even more about growing good cannabis, we offer a free 40+ page guide full of images.
Now available on Amazon.
Sign up for our newsletter and download the digital copy today!
This guide will answer many questions about growing cannabis, like the following...
Selecting Seeds
Identify and Correct Problems
Maximize Yield
Much More...
Get a Chance to INSTANTLY WIN a Reefertilizer Nutrient Kit When You Sign Up.
Mike Drouin is the co-founder of Reefertilizer. He’s an experienced craft cannabis grower and a writer of many articles regarding the process. Mike lives on Vancouver Island and enjoys cycling and camping and will sometimes combine the two.